English Vocabulary — Antonyms Choose the word that is OPPOSITE in meaning to the highlighted adjective in the sentence below. Sentence: He is extremely intelligent but proud. Target word: proud

Introduction / Context:This question targets personality-trait antonyms. The sentence highlights "proud" as the focal adjective. In value judgments about people, the straightforward opposite of "proud" is "humble," which implies modesty and lack of self-aggrandizement.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target adjective: proud.
• We must choose the single best opposite in everyday character description.
• Distractors intentionally include synonyms of "proud."

Concept / Approach:

"Proud" (when used negatively about character) aligns with arrogance, vanity, and boastfulness. Its antonym is "humble," denoting modest estimation of one's importance and a lack of ostentatious display.

Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Map the semantic field: proud ↔ humble.2) Compare each option: which one reverses the trait rather than reinforcing it?3) Only "humble" flips the meaning; the others intensify or restate pride.4) Select "humble."

Verification / Alternative check:

Substitute in the sentence: "…extremely intelligent but humble" is idiomatic and clearly opposite to "proud."

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

arrogant: Synonym/near-synonym of proud in negative sense.vain: Synonym; focused on appearance or self-admiration.boastful: Synonym; inclined to brag.haughty: Synonym; condescending pride.

Common Pitfalls:

Do not confuse "pride" in the neutral/positive sense with the negative trait; in antonym questions, context usually points to character flaw vs virtue.

Final Answer:

humble